Canada Certifies Pipistrel Electric and Efficient Aircraft Models

Canada Opens Its Skies to a New Era of Aviation with Pipistrel Certification

The Canadian aviation landscape is set for a significant transformation. On November 12, 2025, Transport Canada officially issued type certificate validations for three aircraft models from Pipistrel, a subsidiary of Textron Inc.. The aircraft, the all-electric Velis Electro, the versatile Explorer, and the Velis Club, can now be owned and operated across the country. This development is more than just a regulatory approval; it signals a pivotal moment for flight training and sustainable aviation in Canada, opening the door for a new generation of quieter, cleaner, and more cost-effective aircraft.

This move aligns with a broader global shift towards greener technologies in the aviation sector. As the industry grapples with its environmental impact, the introduction of zero-emission aircraft like the Velis Electro into training fleets is a critical step forward. For Canada, a country with vast landscapes and a significant number of remote communities, the operational efficiencies and reduced environmental footprint of these aircraft present a compelling proposition. The validation strengthens Pipistrel’s presence in a key international market and provides Canadian flight schools with the tools to modernize their training programs, preparing pilots for the future of flight.

The Aircraft Leading the Charge

The validation from Transport Canada puts a spotlight on three distinct yet equally innovative Commercial-Aircraft. Each model brings unique capabilities to the table, catering to different segments of the general aviation and flight training markets. From a silent, zero-emission trainer to a rugged, high-performance explorer, these aircraft represent the cutting edge of light aircraft design and technology. Their introduction into the Canadian market is expected to have a ripple effect, influencing everything from pilot training curricula to operational costs for flight schools.

The Velis Electro: A Silent Revolution in Flight Training

The Pipistrel Velis Electro stands out as the world’s first and, to date, only type-certified electric aircraft.. Its validation in Canada is a landmark achievement for Electric-Aviation. The aircraft is a game-changer for flight training, primarily due to its zero-emission propulsion and remarkably low noise profile. Producing only 60 decibels of noise, it is significantly quieter than its conventionally powered counterparts, making it an ideal solution for training operations near populated areas.. This characteristic helps mitigate noise complaints, a common issue for flight schools.

Beyond its environmental benefits, the Velis Electro is designed with the student pilot in mind. It features user-friendly Avionics and a simplified powertrain, which can reduce the complexity of initial flight training. The operational costs are also lower, thanks to the reduced price of electricity compared to avgas and lower maintenance requirements for the electric engine. The engine itself was the first of its kind to receive type certification validation in Canada in 2024, paving the way for the full aircraft’s approval.. The University of Waterloo’s Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics (WISA) and the Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre (WWFC) have already been utilizing a Velis Electro since 2022 for research, showcasing the aircraft’s potential in an academic and practical setting..

The journey to Canadian validation has been a global one. The Velis Electro first received EASA type Certification in 2020, followed by UK CAA certification in 2022 and an FAA LSA airworthiness exemption in 2024.. This series of international approvals underscores the aircraft’s robust design and the growing acceptance of electric propulsion in the aviation community.

“Transport Canada’s validation of these aircraft type certificates serve as an acknowledgement of our teams engineering expertise and highlights the growing international recognition of our products in key global markets.”

– Gabriel Massey, President and Managing Director of Pipistrel..

The Explorer: Built for Adventure and Advanced Training

While the Velis Electro captures headlines for its electric powertrain, the Pipistrel Explorer (also known as the Virus SW 121A) offers a different kind of innovation. This aircraft is engineered for superior performance on minimal power, making it exceptionally well-suited for operations in Canada’s diverse and often challenging environments. Its ability to perform in varied temperatures and at high altitudes makes it a reliable platform for flights into remote areas. The Explorer is a versatile machine, approved for both day and night Visual Flight Rules (VFR) operations and even intentional spins, a crucial maneuver in advanced pilot training..

The Explorer is equipped with an Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)-ready avionics package, allowing it to be used for more advanced training modules. This capability provides a seamless transition for students moving from basic VFR training to more complex instrument flying. The aircraft’s efficiency and performance characteristics make it an attractive option for flight schools looking to offer a comprehensive training program with a modern and capable aircraft. Its EASA type certification was achieved in 2021, building on the original model’s certification from 2016..

The inclusion of the Explorer alongside the Velis Electro in the Canadian validation means that flight schools can now build a more holistic and modern training fleet from a single Manufacturers. They can offer initial training on a quiet, eco-friendly electric platform and then transition students to a high-performance, IFR-capable aircraft for more advanced ratings. This synergy enhances the training experience and provides a clear progression for aspiring pilots.

Implications for the Canadian Aviation Industry

The certification of these Pipistrel aircraft is more than just an expansion of available models; it’s a catalyst for change within the Canadian aviation sector. It directly addresses several key industry trends, including the push for sustainability, the need to modernize training fleets, and the ongoing effort to make aviation more accessible and cost-effective. This move by Transport Canada reflects a forward-thinking Regulations approach, embracing new technologies that promise to shape the future of flight.

For flight schools, the immediate impact will be the ability to offer training on state-of-the-art equipment. This can be a significant competitive advantage, attracting both students and instructors who are eager to work with the latest technology. The lower operating costs of the Velis Electro, in particular, could translate into more affordable flight training, potentially expanding the pool of prospective pilots. Furthermore, the introduction of electric aircraft into the curriculum provides a unique opportunity to train pilots on the technologies they will likely encounter throughout their careers.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Canadian Aviation

The validation of the Pipistrel Velis Electro, Explorer, and Velis Club by Transport Canada marks the beginning of a new chapter for aviation in the country. It is a clear endorsement of sustainable technologies and a significant step toward modernizing the nation’s flight training infrastructure. By allowing these innovative aircraft to operate in Canadian skies, regulators have unlocked new possibilities for flight schools, pilots, and the broader aviation community. This decision paves the way for a quieter, cleaner, and more efficient approach to flying.

Looking ahead, this development is likely to accelerate the adoption of electric and high-efficiency aircraft across Canada and potentially influence other regulatory bodies worldwide. As more pilots gain experience with these technologies, the industry will move closer to a future where sustainable aviation is the norm, not the exception. The collaboration between manufacturers like Pipistrel, regulators like Transport Canada, and forward-thinking institutions is crucial for driving this transformation and ensuring that the next generation of aviation is safer, smarter, and more sustainable.

FAQ

Question: What aircraft were certified by Transport Canada?
Answer: Transport Canada issued type certificate validation for the Pipistrel Velis Electro, the Pipistrel Explorer, and the Velis Club..

Question: What is significant about the Pipistrel Velis Electro?
Answer: The Velis Electro is the world’s first and currently only fully electric type-certified aircraft. It is known for its zero emissions and very low noise profile of only 60 decibels, making it ideal for flight training..

Question: How will this certification impact flight training in Canada?
Answer: It will allow Canadian flight schools to incorporate these modern, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly aircraft into their training programs. This provides advanced training opportunities and prepares pilots for future aviation technologies..

Sources

• Textron Inc.